Marcus Plowright

Director #generationgifted #muslimdragqueens #americanhighschool

About Me

In February 2015 I made my first film for Channel 4 about Muslim Drag Queens. Prior to that I worked on the BAFTA winning documentaries Grayson Perry: Who Are You) and Grayson Perry's Dream House. I was nominated for Breakthrough Talent at BAFTA Craft Awards 2016. My latest series, American Hig... Read More

In February 2015 I made my first film for Channel 4 about Muslim Drag Queens. Prior to that I worked on the BAFTA winning documentaries Grayson Perry: Who Are You) and Grayson Perry's Dream House. I was nominated for Breakthrough Talent at BAFTA Craft Awards 2016. My latest series, American High School: Straight Outta Orangeburg is out now. Read Less

Description:“Documentary of the week and one that deserves awards”. The Observer

“It could have been bleak, but this accomplished debut from first-time director Marcus Plowright, narrated by Ian McKellen, was everything a good documentary should be: powerful, often moving and expertly injecting the subject matter with a hefty dose of humour…Too many documentaries are of the point and sneer variety – this commendable film did the opposite, and it sparkled.” The Daily Telegraph (five stars out of five).

“This affecting, insightful documentary was no lazy, blanket condemnation of Islamic conservatism in Britain…important, revealing and unfamiliar story about the modern world, warts, glitter and all.” The Times

“Everyone who participated should be credited with bravery.” The Guardian

This ground-breaking documentary, directed by Marcus Plowright and narrated by Sir Ian McKellen, allows unprecedented insight into the clandestine gay Asian or ‘Gaysian’ community in the UK which provides a haven for young men who are unable to publically reconcile their sexuality with their cultural identity and traditions. Homosexuality is widely deemed to be forbidden within Islam and the exhibitionist nature of drag remains one of the ultimate taboos for many British Asians – forcing the entire scene underground. This sensitively-made film focusses on the stories of three of the 100-150 Muslim Drag Queens who face the seemingly insurmountable challenge of gaining acceptance and tolerance within their own wider communities.

“Grayson Perry’s Dream House was a very lovely thing…completely charming.” The Independent

Grayson Perry’s Dream House charts the creation of Grayson’s riskiest and most personal public artwork of his career: a loving tribute and celebration of his homeland of Essex inspired by his life and the people he grew up amongst. This is his tribute to Essex Women in all their glory and a powerful challenge to the reductive myth of the ‘Essex Girl.’